It is no surprise that this Portuguese island got the nickname “Pearl of the Atlantic”. Winding mountain slopes covered in greeneries, towering peaks, and dramatic beaches form Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes. It is a treasure trove full of adventures, calling all wanderlusts to create lifetime memories. There are so many things Madeira has to offer, so it is challenging to choose only a few. Well, we got you covered! We have compiled a list of the 21 best things to do in Madeira. And yes, they are perfect for first-timers!
Best Things to Do in Madeira – Summary
- Hunt for Waterfalls at 25 Fontes
- Hike Pico Ruivo – Madeira’s Highest Point
- Watch Sunrise from Pico do Arieiro
- Walk Along de São Lourenço
- Hop on a Funchal Toboggan
- Admire the Street Art at Funchal Old Town
- Visit Universo de Memorias Museum
- Enjoy the View from a Cable Car
- Dip Yourself in Seixal Natural Pools
- Go for a Photoshoot at Fanal Forest
- Explore Parque Forestal de Quimadas
- See Traditional Houses at Santana
- See the Extraordinary Ribeira da Janela
- Escape to Ponta do Sol
- Discover Curral das Freiras
- See Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse
- Say Yes to Surfing
- Go Dolphin and Whale-Watching
- Try Out Madeira Wine
- Sip a Poncha
- Go for a Culinary Tour
Hiking
Hunt for Waterfalls at 25 Fontes
Start your journey in Madeira by hiking along the island’s favorite route. Levada das 25 Fontes calls everyone, from tourists to locals, to savor Madeira’s raw nature. The route stretches 4.3 km long and it takes around 3 hours to reach the end. The 25 Fontes route is densely forested, keeping unique-shaped trees and plants inside. Moreover, 25 Fontes is famous for its waterfalls. Stop by some beautiful waterfalls, like the giant Risco Waterfall and the red-walled 25 Falls. After all, they are the main deal of 25 Fontes Route. Whether you are a first-timer or an all-round Madeira vacationer, hiking through 25 Fontes is one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Hike Pico Ruivo – Madeira’s Highest Point
Spoil the adventurer inside you and get a magical scene of cloud-veiled Madeira from Pico Ruivo. This highest point of Madeira stands at 1,862 meters above sea level. It has a rocky, jagged peak at the end and acts as a viewpoint. Steep stairs of the Pico do Arieiro take you to the top, which can be more challenging than you thought. Alternatively, you can take the more gentle Achada do Teixeira trail. You need around 4-5 hours to complete the hike. However, everything is worth it as the landscapes will leave you breathless. Therefore, it is one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Watch Sunrise from Pico do Arieiro
Any hiking trail for beginners? – you might ask. Well, Pico do Arieiro is the answer! Standing as the third-highest peak on Madeira, it offers an exquisite view for everyone. Get ready to witness a sea of clouds with rays of morning sunshine and a miniature Funchal from Pico do Arieiro. Even better, you can reach the peak by walking from the car park – only 60 seconds away! Besides that, there is a stairlift for wheelchair users that takes them to Pico do Arieiro’s main point. The best time to visit Pico do Arieiro is during the sunrise when you can watch a gorgeous golden sky and enjoy a refreshing morning hike. Therefore, Pico do Arieiro is one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Walk Along de São Lourenço
If you are looking for something remote and wild in Madeira, head to São Lourenço. This eastern Madeira peninsula displays an outstanding scene of jagged rocks and dramatic cliffs. Although it looks steep and uninhabitable, São Lourenço calls for a thrilling semi-climbing journey. Scramble through the rocky walls and walk carefully through the narrow trail. São Lourenço’s landscapes will cast a spell on you. Additionally, you can spot Madeira’s wild animals, like wall lizards, birds, and seals. The pristine and protected environment of São Lourenço makes the animals call it a comfortable home. Therefore, exploring São Lourenço is one of the best things to do in Madeira, especially for nature lovers.
Funchal
Hop on a Funchal Toboggan
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, has so much to offer. However, many will agree that toboggan is the best one. This carriage-like sled takes you sliding down the winding area of Monte. During the ride, you will slide along narrow alleyways and sharp corners at full speed, which surprisingly sends an adrenaline rush. Two men dressed in white act as runners. They will run and hold the wicker sled so you have a fun and safe experience. A single toboggan ride costs around €25. Therefore, it is one of the unmissable things to do in Madeira.
Admire the Street Art at Funchal Old Town
Besides the beautiful nature, Madeira is known for its sense of art. Murals and colors light up the island, especially in its thriving capital. The Old Town of Funchal acts as an open-air museum. The buildings’ walls and alleys are adorned with artistic and colorful murals. Spot the expertly-painted La Baleia – whale – mural next to the tunnel of Campo Barca. Moreover, the street of Rua da Santa Maria displays realistic paintings on its doors and walls. So, make sure to come with a fully charged phone. You would want to take a lot of pictures!
Visit Universo de Memorias Museum
As the heart of Madeira, Funchal has no shortage of interesting places to visit. One of them is the Universo de Memorias Museum, which translates as ‘the Museum of Memories’. As the name suggests, the museum displays heartfelt collections of João Carlos Abreu, a journalist and former minister of Portugal. You can see letters, gifts, souvenirs, and handmade art he collected from his trips around the world. One of the most eye-catching collections is a life-sized horse statue in the Horse Room. Thus, it is housed in an elegant 19th-century villa, enhancing the heartwarming vibe of the museum. Unique and memorable – visiting Universo de Memorias Museum is one of the best things to do in Madeira for beginners.
Enjoy the View from a Cable Car
Funchal’s Monte municipality is tourists’ all-time favorite. Standing at 1,025 meters above sea level, Monte offers a beautiful view of miniature Funchal. However, visiting Funchal requires a lot of hike. So, if you want to save energy or have tired feet, Funchal cable cars are at your service! Get ready to witness an exquisite view of Madeira’s lush hills, winding slopes, and earth-colored cities from an elevation of 3,200 meters. The 20-minute ride takes you to Monte effortlessly. Thus, it is one of the best things to do in Madeira for first-timers.
Seixal
Dip Yourself in Seixal Natural Pools
Stretching a 45-minute drive away from the capital of Funchal, Seixal Natural Pools is worth checking out. Jagged lava formations and rocks create natural barriers on the brilliant blue sea. Black stone structures stretch into a cave-like formation above your head. Seawater fills the gapping holes, creating beautiful natural pools. Moreover, the natural pools have relatively strong tidal waves, so swim only during low tides. Nonetheless, it is one of the best things to do in Madeira, even for first-timers.
Soak Up the Sun at Seixal Beach
When visiting Seixal, make sure to stop by its gorgeous beach. Porto de Abrigo do Seixal or Seixal Beach features powdery black sand, the brilliant Atlantic Ocean, and lush mountains surrounding the coast. At a glance, the beach looks like something out of a postcard. Besides its stunning scenery, Seixal Beach offers exciting activities. You can dip yourself in the crystal-clear waters, get your tan, and do water sports. Seixal Beach’s waters are relatively calm, so it is perfect for standup paddleboarding and canoeing. Therefore, visiting Seixal Beach is one of the best things to do in Madeira, especially for first-timers.
Santana
Go for a Photoshoot at Fanal Forest
Do you know that Madeira has a fairytale-like place? Head to Fanal Forest and get ready to be enchanted. Tucked on the northern side of Madeira, the forest features a distinctive scene of centuries-old Til (Ocotea foetenes) trees. The big and winding branches of the ancient trees look magnificent. Moreover, the forest looks magical with mist veiling it. You will feel as if you are entering a fairytale forest with secrets and magic in it. For that reason, a lot of tourists love having photoshoots in Fanal Forest. So, make sure to visit and get one for yourself. It is one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Explore Parque Forestal de Quimadas
Madeira has no shortage of beautiful forests to see. Then, Parque Forestal da Quimadas is one of them. The forest in Santana is packed with laurel trees, moss-covered grounds, and lush ferns. Moreover, it has a humid atmosphere, making it feel more like a tropical rainforest than a forest in Europe. Parque Forestal de Quimadas also has unique European-styled cottages made out of wood, which becomes the forest’s icon. You can hike along the forest trails, stop by the cottage, or do a picnic. It is one of the best things to do in Madeira for first-timers.
See Traditional Houses at Santana
It is always a great idea to add a little culture to your itinerary. Then, head to Santana on the northern coast of Madeira. It is home to adorable traditional houses. The triangle-shaped and brightly painted houses are Madeira’s unique treasure. The island’s natural materials, such as wood and grass, were used to build the houses. Casas de Santana – that is the location that you can put on Google Maps to find the traditional houses. So, make sure to visit and take a lot of pictures of the Instagrammable structures!
See the Extraordinary Ribeira da Janela
Tucked on the north coast of Madeira, Ribeira da Janela is simply bewitching. It is the largest river in Madeira, but Ribeira da Janela is specifically the parish where the river ends. However, the main eye candy of the spot is the impressive islets. Jagged rock formations scattered around the coast and the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Big waves roar and splash against the rocks, creating a dramatic scene. When visiting Ribeira da Janela, you can also enjoy its sun-soaked pebbly beach. Additionally, you can set up a camp in the nearby camping park, which offers an exquisite landscape and the relaxing sounds of sea waves.
Escape to Ponta do Sol
Are you looking for a quaint escape in Madeira? Ponta do Sol is for you! This seaside town will captivate you with its series of gaudy buildings and impressive fishing village. At a glance, Ponta do Sol reminds us of Cinque Terre or Porto. Moreover, it is considered the sunniest place in Madeira. Beaches are the main attraction of Ponta do Sol. Spend your days soaking up the sun at the town’s powdery black sand shores and dip your toes into the clear waters. Not to mention, Ponta do Sol looks even more lovely as it is nestled by verdant, narrow valleys. Therefore, escaping to Ponta do Sol is one of the best things to do in Madeira, especially for beginners.
Discover Curral das Freiras
Nestled between Madeira’s imposing mountain peaks and lush valleys, Curral das Freiras is simply charming. However, the village offers more than outstanding scenery. It dates back to the 16th century when it was built as a refuge for Catholic nurses during a pirate attack in Funchal. Nowadays, the village has become a well-loved destination for its quaint atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty. When visiting Curral das Freiras, you can see earth-colored houses, lovely churches, and stunning viewpoints. Additionally, make sure to try its locally produced chestnuts.
See Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse
Tucked on the westernmost point in Madeira, Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse is often overlooked. However, it offers both breathtaking views and interesting history that is worth checking out. Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse stands on a 300-meter cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has been operating since 1922 to guide ships safely to the island of Madeira. Moreover, the lighthouse a museum built next to it, exhibits pictures and documents. Of course, the view from this lighthouse is unmissable. Visit during the sunset to get a stunning view of the reddish sky, golden rays of light, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
Say Yes to Surfing
Do you know that Madeira is one of the best surfing spots in the world? Then, surfing is a must-do when visiting the island! Madeira’s rugged coastlines and rocky coves feature waves for all different levels. Whether you are a first-timer or a surf expert, Madeira is your place! Porto do Abrigo and Porto da Cruz welcome first-timers and intermediates with their low tides and gentle sea. Meanwhile, Jardim Do Mar and Contreiras offer world-class surf experiences with waves reaching as tall as 10 meters. Therefore, surfing is one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Try Out Madeira Wine
Portugal is famous for its delectable wine, especially the Port wine. However, Madeira has its own high-quality wine. Madeira wine has been produced since 300 years ago. It is fortified with brandy and fermented inside wooden barrels at a warm temperature. Madeira wine has a fruity taste, similar to the Port wine. If you are down to trying the wine, head to Seixal or Sao Vicente. Have a few glasses of this sumptuous wine to wrap up your trip to Madeira.
Sip a Poncha
Get a taste of Madeira’s local boost – poncha. The drink is made from sugar cane brandy, lemon juice, and drips of honey. It looks like orange juice at first glance. We give you a shout-out – poncha is surprisingly strong! The hint of sourness and strong alcohol will make your eyes widen. Make sure to have slow sips to avoid getting your head spinning. Nonetheless, poncha is a must-try refreshment during your vacation in Madeira.
Go for a Culinary Tour
Although food has not been a big thing, going for a culinary tour is one of the best things to do in Madeira. The island’s cuisine stays as a hidden gem and is seemingly outshined by the landscapes and outdoor activities. However, get ready to sample a lot of delicious dishes during your tour. Dig into honey cakes, estepada (beef skewers), prego no bolo do caco (steak sandwich), and limpets. Whether you are a foodie or a casual traveler, Madeira’s cuisine will make you excited!
These amazing activities in Madeira ensure you to get the best out of the charming island. Then, which of the activities in Madeira that you like to experience the most?
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